Preemptive praise

Pastor Mike Qualls, speaking from Psalm 126 yesterday in worship, used the topic "Preemptive Praise," a take-off from the oft-used military term pre-emptive strike. His observation was that in this Thanksgiving season we disciples are not only thankful for God's mighty acts in the past and provision in the present, but we also anticipate God's faithfulness in fulfilling God's redemptive purpose in the future. We are grateful in advance for what God has promised to do! The Psalmist anticipated the day when the people of Israel, though they had gone out weeping, would come home 'with shouts of joy, bringing sheaves with them.'

It's true that many of us pause in thanksgiving to God in this season. But I think the notion of thanking God for what is to come is insightful! Perhaps as we share faith with those who are questioning, it may be helpful to think with them about future aspirations, goals, dreams. Does God figure in at all? Could God make a difference?